Staff at the University of Technology Sydney have initiated a university-wide vote of no confidence in the Vice-Chancellor, following months of escalating concern about governance, decision-making, and the direction of the institution.
More than 250 UTS staff attended an all-staff meeting on Wednesday 29 October, convened in response to growing frustration with the Vice-Chancellor’s leadership. Staff expressed deep concern about the lack of transparency and consultation surrounding major restructures, the impact of management decisions on workloads and job security, and the increasing disconnect between executive priorities and the reality of academic and professional work across the university.
A significant catalyst for staff outrage was the Vice-Chancellor’s appearance at the recent NSW Parliamentary Inquiry into University Governance, where his responses to questions on transparency, staffing decisions, and financial oversight raised further doubts about the direction of UTS. For many staff, the hearing confirmed longstanding concerns that governance processes at UTS are not delivering accountability, stability, or confidence in executive decision-making.
At the all-staff meeting, staff voted overwhelmingly to initiate a vote of no confidence in the Vice-Chancellor and requested that the NTEU provide administrative support to run the process. The NTEU is facilitating the vote in line with that request.
The vote is open to all UTS staff, regardless of union membership.
Once complete, the outcome will be formally conveyed to the UTS Council and the Chancellor, ensuring that the university’s governing body receives a clear and unequivocal message from staff about the urgent need for better leadership, stronger governance, and full accountability for the decisions shaping the future of UTS.
